Nivada chronograph with Valjoux 7736. I had already decided to sell it, but found another 19mm strap in my strap department, which I put on. Now I am not so sure anymore...The case (in fact the whole watch) was pretty beaten when I got it, so this will never be restored any further than it is now.

Ardnut since 1989

In twenty years or so, the German language will be one, massively long compound word.-- conjurer

Going for the very unusual this last-day-of-the-workweek, a vintage Wostok (later Vostok, or, for the purist, "Boctok") piece from the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, or USSR. It's powered by a Russian-built mechanical/hand-wind movement, and mounted in a stainless steel case.

The original strap was black alligator, but that one went the way of the Yugo some time ago. I've replaced it with a high-gloss 'gator strap that really seems to fit its personality, and helps to make the whole package a wonderful addition to my modest little collection of vintage watches.

My favorite feature, though, is its very rare and unusual dial face, which is made up of a delicate & compelling floral pattern pressed into the dial's unknown material (probably leather, according to my watchmaker). My next-favorite facet of this beautiful watch is the notation at the six o'clock position: "Made in USSR."